News Release
For Immediate Release
November 20, 2024
Contact
Gina Patterson, executive director
434-295-8722 or gina@vsba.org
Two Student School Board Representatives Awarded
VSBA Exhibitors Scholarships
Charlottesville, VA – Today, at the Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Annual Convention’s Opening General Session, two exceptional students – Ankith Bhogavalli from John Handley High School in Winchester City Public Schools and Megan Sawant from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Fairfax County Public Schools – were honored with the prestigious 2024 VSBA Exhibitors Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes graduating seniors who have made an impact by serving as student school board representatives on their local school boards. This year, both students were awarded $1,000.
The 2024 scholarships were sponsored by Air Mechanical Solutions, Sentara Health Plans, Clark Nexsen, HES Facilities Management, Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc., and VMDO Architects. Their contributions make this recognition possible, highlighting the VSBA’s commitment to celebrating student leaders who exemplify dedication to public education and community service.
When asked what receiving this scholarship meant to them, each recipient responded:
“Receiving the VSBA Exhibitors Scholarship is truly meaningful to me. It feels like a powerful acknowledgment of my dedication to my school community and of the hours spent working to make sure students’ voices are heard,” said Ankith Bhogavalli. “This scholarship isn’t just financial support—it’s a reminder that what we do to uplift each other matters. It inspires me to bring the same commitment, inclusivity, and passion to my college campus, just as I’ve done in high school. To me, this scholarship reflects the importance of using our voices and giving back, and I’m grateful for the chance to carry that forward.”
“This scholarship, to me, is encouragement to continue advocating for student voice and activism, learning how to best support my community,” said Megan Sawant. “I’m so honored and grateful to the VSBA and supporting sponsors for this opportunity to further my education, where I hope to pursue biology and public policy in college to be a public servant.”
About the Virginia School Boards Association
The Virginia School Boards Association, a voluntary, nonpartisan organization of Virginia school boards, promotes excellence in public education through advocacy, training, and services. The Association offers conferences, information, training, and counseling designed to meet the needs of the Commonwealth’s educational leaders.
###